Urgent Prayer Request From Our Territorial Leaders

Dear friends,

For the past several days, Donna and I have been honored to speak at the Territorial Officer's Councils in the Nigeria Territory. The days shared with the 420 officers and 40 cadets were filled with great joy as we enjoyed praise and worship in the Lord. They had not had a councils like this in many years and were delighted to see one another. Last night (Thursday) was a "social night" where they all wore their traditional attire, danced, sang their favorite choruses. We felt the glory of the Lord over us. It was a week we will always hold close to our hearts.

Today, the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Daniel Kasuso met us and gave us unfathomable news that around 9:00 am this morning, as a group of 15 officers, one 2-year-old child, and a soldier (driver) were traveling home from the councils they became involved in a horrific accident. The van carrying the Salvationists was crushed between two tractor trailers. As I write, 12 officers have died in addition to the child and driver. Three more officers remain in the hospital and one in ICU. The driver and one of the officers were brothers. The wife of the officer brother and mother of the deceased child is in critical condition. She does not yet know about her great loss. Most of the officers were from one division.

We immediately went to the THQ compound to pray and mourn with other Army leaders. I cannot find the words to express the grief of this territory. I assured them of our steadfast prayers. I have pledged our support in the burial of each officer and to replace the van they were in, which belonged to their children's home.

Psalms 121 gives me strength in these days. I lift my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

I ask that you join our hearts in prayer support for our dear comrades in Nigeria who are grieving. Please find the News Bulletin that was sent to the officers and soldiers of the Nigeria Territory.

May God hold you and your family close this very day.

NEWS BULLETIN

The Salvation Army Nigeria Territory regrets fatal accident involving officers returning from Officer's Councils.

The Salvation Army Nigeria Territory/Commissioner Daniel Kasuso deeply regrets to announce that a group of officers who were returning from the just concluded Officer's Councils were involved in a fatal accident. 

At the time of this release, it has been reported that approximately 12 officers, one comrade who drove, and a baby, tragically lost their lives while others sustained varying degrees of injuries. 

The Leadership extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased officers and fervently prays for God's protection over those who remain.

Please pray for the families and The Salvation Army. May the souls of the departed officers and comrade, find eternal rest in the embrace of God.